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First Nations Heritage

A mystical experience

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region has been home to several different, yet interdependent Aboriginal linguistic groups since time began.

You are invited to experience the sacred and educational offerings of our First Nations tourism products and services. Take a hike back in time, dance around a sacred fire, witness a ceremony, or hear the history of generations gone but not forgotten. Such unique cultural experiences leave everlasting impressions—a new yet old outlook on the world will be the souvenir you take home.

Xats'ull Heritage Village

Xats'ull Heritage Village, Williams Lake (Soda Creek):

The Xats'ull First Nation community welcomes you to their National Award-Winning Heritage Village.

The Xats'ull (pronounced hats'ull) First Nations community is known to the non-native society as Soda Creek Band. "Xats'ull" translates as "on the cliff". Xats'ull people are part of the Great Secwepemc Nation, and Soda Creek is the northern-most Secwepemc (translated into English as "Shuswap") Band. The Xats'ull people have occupied the bench lands north of Williams Lake, high above the Fraser River, for over 5,000 years, and today, approximately 350 people continue to work and live in this small, yet thriving, community.

The majestic Fraser River runs alonside the Xats'ull Heritage Village and has played an integral role in the community throughout the years. This unspoiled region is home to a wide array of plants, fish, and wildlife - each perfectly adapted to this unique environment.

The Xats'ull community invites you to visit and experience their spiritual, cultural, and traditional way of life. There are regulary scheduled daily tours, or you may wish to participate in the all-inclusive extended stay program, where you will take part in a variety of educational and recreation activities each day.

Relive the traditional ways of the Xats'ull people...The memories will last a lifetime!

Klemtu Tourism

Klemtu is a small village on Swindle Island, situated on the beautiful Central Coast of British Columbia, half-way between Port Hardy, on Vancouver Island, and Prince Rupert.

Two distinct tribal organizations live here: the Kitasoo (Tsimshian) who were originally from Kitasu Bay and the Xaixais of Kynoc Inlet. The Kitasoo/Xaixais people are the only permanent residents within the traditional territories of the First Nation. Four clans and crests are the foundation of the cultures-Gaanhaanda (Raven), Gispudwada (Killer Whale), Laxgeek (Eagle), and Laxgibu (Wolf).

Many, many years ago, the Kitasoo and Xaixais people came to settle here in Klemdulxk (Klemtu) meaning 'blocked passage' in the Tsimshian language. This area was first their camping site along the way for trade, and then later used for trading and providing cordwood to fuel the steamships which traveled the inside passage. Today, Klemtu is a close knit community of about 400 Kitasoo and Xaixais people surrounded by breathtaking scenery and an abundant natural food supply. This is a place where life is peaceful and the people are friendly. Upon arrival to Klemtu you will be greeted by the friendly community and throughout your stay you will be exposed to the rich culture of the Kitasoo/ Xaixais people and gain an insight into this remote village that was once a bustling coastal fishing and trading centre.

Aboriginal Petroglyph, Thorsen Creek Valley

Petroglyphs provide a glimpse into the lives of First Nations peoples. For BC's Aboriginal cultures, these ancient rock carvings are also an intrinsic link to the past. More of these extraordinary symbols have been recorded in BC than in any other Canadian province. Locations for petroglyphs were places honouring the power and mystery of nature. Many sites are found near waterfalls, rock formations or caves; almost all sites are near water.

Just outside the village of Bella Coola you'll find the Thorsen Creek Petroglyphs, consisting of over 40 rock carvings. To visit the site, contact the Nuxalk First Nations or enquire at the local tourism office to arrange a guided tour.

The Thorsen Creek Petroglyphs are located a 10-minute drive east from Bella Coola.

Aboriginal Tourism Association of B.C.

For more information on Aboriginal Tourism in British Columbia please visit the Aboriginal Tourism Association of B.C.'s website.

Aboriginal Tourism Association of B.C.

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